Velimir President of the World in Florence: Claudio Ascoli’s production in 2004

Professor Grigor'ev devoted many years to the study of the style and poetic language of Velimir Chlebnikov, who is one of the most interesting authors of Russian Futurism. This article is devoted to a recent theatrical performance based on a choice of Chlebnikov's short and long poems, which was directed by Claudio Ascoli and his experimental theatrical group “Chille della Balanza".This play provides the audience with a complete and profound view of Chlebnikov’s poetics. It also highlights the most relevant and topical elements of his work: the desire for a Utopian universal peace by means of the resolution of opposites, the West and Asia, and through a universal language. Ascoli’s staging was particularly atmospheric thanks to the choice of oriental music and the lighting. The setting in the courtyard of a former psychiatric ward is inspiring and in keeping with the idea of the misunderstood prophet-poet, mocked in his own country and considered a fool. This play was in every way the best possible tribute to this poet and his Italian translator Ripellino, who inspired a love for Chlebnikov in generations of Italian readers.